TEC Mates Initiative Looks to Help Those Without IT Skills
The TEC Mates programme supports the use and uptake of Digital Technology and Technology Enabled Care (TEC) products and services. It aims to inform vulnerable people, their friends, family and carers on TEC and its capabilities; also to consider its adoption for accessing social and health care services.
It will focus on the specific skills required to help residents and their family and friends become more digitally aware. Importantly, it will help them gain a greater understanding about new Technology Enabled Care solutions. These are being rolled out by the West Essex Community Action Network (WECAN) and supported by Essex County Council.
Could you be a TEC Mate Volunteer?
WECAN are looking for people with a good all-round knowledge of smart phones, tablets, Chromebooks, laptops and smart speakers. You will also need the enthusiasm to help others gain the skills they need. Ideally, WECAN would like you to be able to show people how to use digital technology and guide them as to how Technology Enabled Care (TEC) could benefit them. They are looking for volunteers who can undertake some of the following:
- Browse websites and use a search engine
- Send emails and complete online forms
- Shop online including online banking
- Use WhatsApp, Zoom, Teams and other video mediums
- Can help with applying for jobs
- Explain about Internet security and staying safe online
- Help with Chromebooks, tablets, smart phones, Laptops and smart speakers
- Can use Microsoft Office e.g. MS Word, Excel.
- Are willing to help others e.g. relatives, friends, neighbours, local groups
Why become a TEC Mate?
Like any volunteering role, they are asking you to give up your time to help others; there are lots of benefits to becoming a volunteer:
- Meet people and have fun
- Help others in the community and feel useful
- Do something different and gain new experiences
- Build self confidence
- Learn new skills
- Help make a difference to people’s lives
- Contribute to a worthwhile cause
As a TEC Mate volunteer, WECAN would support you in developing your own skills; you can also learn and help others at the same time. It is hoped that the role would give you a great deal of satisfaction whilst making use of existing skills and learning new ones through the volunteering process.
Can you Help?
You can help by volunteering, or spreading this information to encourage interested individuals or community groups to get involved. For more information on TEC Mates call Project Coordinator, Sophie Davis, on 03333 401727 or 07897 248532. Her working hours are 09:00 – 17:00 from Monday to Friday.